CWI News – October 11, 2024
In the Spotlight
Mary C. Daly, President and Chief Executive Officer of the Federal Reserve Bank of San Francisco, visited College of Western Idaho (CWI) to learn about the Treasure Valley market, the workforce training needs of local businesses, and the learning opportunities available to students at CWI.
News Highlights
Opening Doors Raises $316K for Student Scholarships
The College of Western Idaho (CWI) Foundation's Opening Doors Benefit Event was a fantastic night filled with community support and fun. The 11th-annual event and online auction, Sept. 1 – 15, raised more than $316,224 for student scholarships.
The live event, hosted Sept. 13 at the Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB), came alive with CWI leaders, success stories, and a lively auction. It was a night to remember, celebrating education and local generosity. Guests heard remarks from CWI Vice President of Advancement, Mark Arstein, and CWI President, Gordon Jones.
Joining the event were several current students and scholarship recipients, including Mietta Sibert who is working towards an Associate of Applied Science degree in the Administrative Specialist program. “With the help of scholarships, I've been able to focus on my studies and career development, turning aspirations into achievements. These opportunities have empowered me to pursue new goals with confidence and determination," said Sibert.
Over 460 guests at the in-person event enjoyed dinner, drinks, and dessert as well as the chance to participate in a silent and live auction, the latter of which was conducted by auctioneer, Kevin Seward.
This year's auction had several unique items, including captivating experience packages generously contributed by community members, tickets to sporting events that set hearts racing across the region, and much more. Perhaps the fiercest bidding took place over an adorable French Bulldog puppy.
To close out this year’s in-person event, former CWI Foundation Board President, Ivan Castillo invited guests to participate in a paddle raise, where supporters of CWI pledged various amounts of money to donate to the CWI Foundation.
“Opening Doors is a great tradition at CWI,” Arstein said. “This year's remarkable event has not only brought our community together but has also raised an astounding $316,224 in support of the College's mission. It's a testament to the dedication and generosity of our donors and supporters who understand the impact CWI has on the lives of our students. Thank you to all who contributed. We're now one step closer to opening doors to brighter futures for thousands of students."
Over the course of the online auction and in-person event, over 138 chose to support CWI student scholarships. However, it is never too late to give the gift of education. Visit the CWI Foundation online to learn more and donate today.
Contact the Foundation at 208.562.3100 or foundation@cwi.edu for more information and ways to get involved.
Farm to Fork Dinner Raises $6000 for the Campus Garden
From the peppery cheese queso and homemade tortilla chips to the comfort of peachy-plum ribbon ice cream, College of Western Idaho's (CWI) annual Farm to Fork dinner was a culinary adventure! Eighty people from across the College and around the Treasure Valley enjoyed a delicious five-course meal at the Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB) Friday, Oct. 4, to support CWI's Campus Garden.
The 2024 Farm to Fork dinner raised more than $6,000 for the garden, which provides CWI students access to fresh produce and supports agriculture coursework. Hosted by Agricultural Sciences faculty and students, the dinner showcases an authentic farm-to-fork meal featuring ingredients harvested from CWI's Campus Garden and specialties sourced from local partners in the Treasure Valley.
"It’s great to facilitate an event that supports the campus garden, highlights our local community, and brings people together to share a wonderful meal," said Department Chair and Assistant Professor of Agricultural Sciences, Andrea Schumaker.
The evening commenced with Schumaker leading guests and volunteers on a tour of the Campus Garden, located east of the NCAB parking lot. People were able to see where much of the night’s meal came from.
The meal started with a peppery cheese queso and homemade tortilla chips, from the Rodriguez Bakery and Eden Creamery. This course was paired with Better Late Than Navel from Craft Lounge and Centerfire Spirts. Following was a tasty fresh corn salad and other veggie goodies from the CWI Campus Garden and Wissel Farms. This was paired with Sunny Tom Mint Kombucha from Idaho Kombucha.
A warm and tasty soup followed, made from a variety of squashes from the Garden, served with sourdough bread from Hudson Bakery, and paired with Cab Franc by Par Terre.
The main course was delicious birria style pulled pork taco, grilling cheese dipping sauce, and fermented goodness — made from ingredients from the Campus Garden, McIntyre Pastures, Eden Creamery, and Rodriguez Bakery — paired with Mother Earth’s Tierra Madre.
Guests then wrapped up their meal with a sweet treat — Peachy- Plum Ribbon Ice-Cream from Stella’s Ice Cream — featuring peaches and plums from Cherry Hill Farms.
The courses and fine cuisine were prepared by the Tower Grill Chef, Nate Lindskoog with assistance from his lovely parents, and Joshua Bynum, Andrea Schumaker, and her adorable kiddos and sous-chefs Paisley and Haddi.
While Farm to Fork happens annually, those passionate about agriculture can level up through CWI's Agricultural Business, Leadership, and Education program.
Get Your Scare On at the ASCWI Trunk-or-Treat
ASCWI's Trunk or Treat is back and better than ever! Join us on Thursday, Oct. 24, from 5 – 7 p.m. in the Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB) east parking lot for a fun and family-friendly evening of trick-or-treating, games, and more.
ASCWI Trunk-or-Treat
Thursday, Oct. 24
5 – 7 p.m.
Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB), east parking lot
- Food from Tin Roof Tacos will be provided.
- The entire CWI community including students, faculty, staff, and their families are invited.
This year, we'll have even more decorated cars, more candy, and more fun! Come dressed in your best costume and trick-or-treat from the trunks of decorated cars. There will be fun, games for all ages, music, and food!
This is a great opportunity for the College of Western Idaho (CWI) community to come together and celebrate. We encourage everyone to come out and have a good time!
Interested in hosting a trunk or table?
CWI clubs and organizations along with CWI departments and offices are invited to register to host a trunk or table at the event.
For more information about Trunk or Treat, please contact ASCWI at ascwi@cwi.edu.
Register for the Fall 2024 Ignite Leadership Series
The Fall 2024 Ignite Leadership Series, a two-part introductory program sponsored by The Hartwell Corporation, is designed to ignite leadership potential and empower you to achieve success. This transformative experience is open to all CWI students and will equip you with the skills you need to excel in any environment.
What you will gain:
- Develop essential leadership skills
- Discover your purpose
- Boost your confidence
- Network with peers
All participants will complete a True Colors assessment, enjoy dinner from Café Zupas, and will be entered in a drawing for a leadership basket!
The Ignite Leadership Series is a sequential program, so attending both sessions is crucial for the full experience. Mark your calendars for:
Fall 2024 Ignite Leadership Series
Session 1
Tuesday, Oct. 15
5 – 7 p.m.
Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB), Student Lounge, Room 122
Session 2
Tuesday, Oct. 22
5 – 7 p.m.
Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB), Student Lounge, Room 122
Don't miss this incredible opportunity to unlock your leadership potential! Registration is now open.
For those with questions or in need of more information, contact Sitlaly Escamilla at sitlalyescamilla@cwi.edu.
Commemorate Indigenous Peoples Day at CWI
Join College of Western Idaho's (CWI) School of Social Science and Public Affairs, and School of Arts and Humanities as we honor Indigenous Peoples Day at the Nampa Campus Academic Building Monday, Oct. 14, at 7 p.m.
The entire CWI community is invited to join us for refreshments and a presentation led by Indigenous community members, followed by a thoughtful, interactive conversation.
Native Experiences and Revitalization
Presenter:
Rob Sam – Ron is an enrolled member with the Summit Lake Paiute in Northern Nevada. He is an accomplished artist and musician who presents to local students, participates in powwows and the regional Sun Dance ceremony. Join us to hear him discuss his personal journey revitalizing Native experiences and traditions.
Monday, Oct. 14
7:00 – 8:30 p.m.
Nampa Campus Academic Building (NCAB), 102E
This event is free and open to the public. Refreshments will be available prior to the event.
The State of Idaho has officially recognized the day since 2019 when Governor Brad Little issued a proclamation declaring every second Monday in October as Indigenous Peoples’ Day.
For those with questions or in need of more information, please contact Nikki Gorrell at nikkigorrell@cwi.edu.
Unlock Your Business Potential with the Entrepreneur Lab's Idea, Set, Go Cohort!
Are you brimming with a business idea but unsure if it's ready to take off? Join the Entrepreneur Lab’s Idea, Set, Go cohort, starting October 8th! This dynamic 4-week program will provide you with the tools and insights needed to validate your concept and determine its viability in the marketplace.
Throughout the cohort, you'll engage in hands-on experiments and receive expert guidance to help clarify your business direction before investing significant time and energy. Don’t miss this opportunity to refine your idea and connect with fellow aspiring entrepreneurs!
- When: Weekly sessions from October 8 to October 29
- Where: Nampa Campus Academic Building, College of Western Idaho
- How to Apply: Visit our web page at Entrepreneur Lab - Idea, Set, Go to secure your spot!
Take the first step toward launching your dream business!
Mental Health Tidbits: Stress Management with Yoga Fusion
Discovering the proper stress management techniques and prioritizing mental health is crucial for maintaining your well-being. Whether it's the demands of school, family, work, finances, or relationships, College of Western Idaho (CWI) understands the overwhelming pressures life can throw your way. Our CWI Mental Health First Aid trainers offer Mental Health Tidbits for campus community members to help broaden their knowledge on mental health topics.
In October a musically inspired yoga dance fusion class will be offered at both campus locations to support holistic stress management. This mindful fitness format fosters emotional stability and resilience, encourages a deeper connection between the body and mind, and sharpens focus and concentration. These 50-minute sessions will be conducted barefoot on the mat, with no jumping or impact, making it accessible to nearly all. The sessions will be led by Erica Compton, Director of Student Advising and Success. Erica is also a certified ACE Group Fitness Instructor, certified Oula and Oula One instructor, and teaches both formats weekly at the Tomlinson South YMCA.
Yoga Fusion Class (Oula One)
Wednesday, Oct. 16
4 – 5 p.m.
Ada County Center Pintail Building (APIN), Room 1320
Wednesday, Oct. 23
4 – 5 p.m.
Nampa Campus Aspen Classroom Building (NASP), Room 100
What to Bring:
• Water Bottle
• Yoga Mat (a few will be made available if you don’t have one)
• Flexible attire
Ten CWI employees are certified Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) instructors. MHFA teaches individuals the skills necessary to help someone who may be developing a mental health problem or experiencing a mental health crisis. This research and evidence-based program promotes mental health literacy to help the public identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental illness. The course introduces participants to the MHFA Action Plan, ALGEE, a five-step plan that can be used to provide support to someone in distress. Additionally, participants learn the risk factors and warning signs for mental health or substance abuse, engage in experiential activities to build an understanding of the impact of illness on individuals and families and discuss evidence-supported treatment and self-help strategies.
CWI employees interested in attending MHFA training can visit the Mental Health First Aid Training Courses to learn more.
For those with questions or interested in learning more about the Mental Health Tidbits Discussions, please contact Jodi Hickenlooper at jodihickenlooper@cwi.edu.
